Think preparing traditional, nutrient dense food takes too much effort? People always ask me, "How do you have the time and energy to cook all this food, raise two kids and work?" Easy! When it comes to spending time in the kitchen, I'm mostly lazy and definitely too busy to spend long hours slaving over the stove. On the average day, I cook breakfast (15 minutes), grab a quick lunch (2-15 minutes), and throw together a … [Read more...] about How To Be A Rock Star In The Kitchen
Sunscreen Ingredients – Your Best (and Worst) Options
All sunscreen is not created equal, and in fact, many products (including natural ones) that successfully prevent burn and sun damage are doing lots of other damage of their own. In a previous article about sun exposure, I talk about the benefits of catching some rays, and how to do so safely. This article is the low-down on sunscreen, and how to choose the healthiest option when you or your child will be in the sun for long … [Read more...] about Sunscreen Ingredients – Your Best (and Worst) Options
Phytic Acid, The Bane of Grains
Many health-conscious folks eat whole grains and seeds as a healthy source of fiber and nutrients. So, you may be surprised to learn that grains contain a substance called phytic acid, which acts as an anti-nutrient, blocking the absorption of essential minerals. Mineral deficiency is associated with a whole host of conditions: anemia, bone problems, tooth decay, depression, anxiety, hormone imbalance and much, much … [Read more...] about Phytic Acid, The Bane of Grains
Is Milk Good? Is Milk Bad?
Is milk good? Is milk bad? The topic of milk consumption is loaded with lots of varying opinions weighing in with conviction and varying degrees of truth. Here are some common myths and facts and explanations in between: ALL milk does a body good - MYTH. The milk industry would have you believe that all milk (as long as it is pasteurized)- "Does a body good" and you too can achieve a "Body by Milk" akin to world class … [Read more...] about Is Milk Good? Is Milk Bad?
Fertility Foods
Whether you're just starting to think about kids or have been trying to get pregnant for awhile, the best medicine to optimize fertility is a healthy diet. Begin to pay a bit more attention to what and how you are eating, because now the old adage, "You are what you eat" not only applies to you but also to the baby that will soon be growing inside you. While you may think you know what it means to eat healthy, you may also be … [Read more...] about Fertility Foods
Is Your Baby Ready? When to Start Solid Foods
Among advice-givers, opinions vary about when to start solid foods in a baby's diet, and ultimately it's up to parents to decide based on what will be best for their child's nutrition and development. There are however a few guidelines that can help you make this decision. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, most babies can start solids at 4 to 6 months of age. Prior to this age, a baby's tongue-pushing reflex … [Read more...] about Is Your Baby Ready? When to Start Solid Foods
Baby Sleep Training vs Co-Sleeping: The Great Debate
The baby sleep training vs co-sleeping issue gets parents in a tizzy. From family beds to cry-it-out, sleep methods are a highly controversial topic among parents and professionals alike. Having tried both baby sleep training and attachment parenting, I'd like to share a holistic view on a good night's sleep that has everyone's best interests in mind. Co-Sleeping Parents who subscribe to Attachment Parenting (AP) commonly … [Read more...] about Baby Sleep Training vs Co-Sleeping: The Great Debate
Take The Leaky Gut Syndrome Quiz (You May Be Surprised)
The following leaky gut syndrome quiz (From Elizabeth Lipski's book, Leaky Gut Syndrome) doesn't provide a definitive diagnosis, but it can help you to assess the functioning of your small intestine. While not intended to replace a physician's care or an intestinal permeability test, if you score high on this self-assessment, seek a practitioner who is knowledgeable about leaky gut to help you. Want to know if you have … [Read more...] about Take The Leaky Gut Syndrome Quiz (You May Be Surprised)
Unexplained Infertility, Explained
You've been trying to conceive for over a year with no luck. Now you and your partner have had extensive hormone testing. Your partner's semen analysis indicates his sperm are healthy, plentiful, and champion swimmers. Your ultrasound shows a healthy uterus and ovaries. You've had an HSG test (hysterosalpingogram) and your fallopian tubes are open for business. For the most part, you menstruate and ovulate regularly, … [Read more...] about Unexplained Infertility, Explained
Fifth Disease Symptoms And Treatments
Fifth Disease (Human parvovirus/Erythema Infectiosum) is a minor, contagious viral illness that commonly affects children aged 5 to 15 years. It is essentially like a cold or minor flu that transitions into a red rash that suddenly appears on the child's cheeks and may spreads to other areas. The "slapped face" appearance tends to looks more painful than it is for kids. Sometimes the red cheeks will appear without being … [Read more...] about Fifth Disease Symptoms And Treatments
Infant Car Seat Safety: What’s Best For Your Baby?
Unfortunately, convenience and optimal wellness do not always go hand in hand. This is certainly the case with infant car seats, and it's not something that most busy parents take the time to consider. Below is a letter I received from my friend and fellow mom, Gitta Sivander, after posting my New Baby Checklist. Thanks Gitta for this important info! Dear Emily, I loved reading through your baby check list, I like to … [Read more...] about Infant Car Seat Safety: What’s Best For Your Baby?
Birth and Postpartum Care Package
Headed to a baby shower and want to get something unique and well-needed for the mama-to-be? While she may be happy to receive a "diaper cake" or another frilly baby outfit, she will really appreciate a birth and postpartum care package. Put together a birth and postpartum care package, and nestle it into a sitz bath complete with labels describing how/why to use each item and tie with a bow. Though not as darling as yet … [Read more...] about Birth and Postpartum Care Package